For a romantic daytime dining experience with a picturesque courtyard view, enjoy Sunday lunch at Olivia’s at Frenchman’s Creek.

Susan Colomaio, a caterer for about 20 years, opened the restaurant and catering establishment in October 2011.

Colomaio, a Kinston native, was the director of catering at East Carolina University before opening her restaurant.

“That (ECU position) gave me a lot of fine dining experience,” she said. “I saw an opportunity because of the space, atmosphere and ambiance of the whole area at Frenchman’s.”

Normally open only for Sunday lunch, Olivia’s will serve dinner for Valentine’s Day weekend from 5:30-9:30 p.m. today and Saturday.

“We’re offering a full menu for (Valentine’s holiday),” Colomaio said.

Diners can choose among six entrees, including prime rib, filet, shrimp scampi, baked salmon and stuffed chicken breast, with the soft sounds of piano music in the background. Beer and wine are available. Reservations are recommended.

The property — once a Sheraton Hotel which became a Hampton Inn in June 1996 — has undergone extensive renovations since Greensboro-based LRP Hotels of Carolina purchased it in August 2011.

Travis Baker, a Sanford native with 22 years of experience as a general manager for Hampton Inns, has been general manager there more than four years.

“We’re the largest interior hotel here in Kinston,” he said.

Baker said Hampton Inns are generally remodeled every five to seven years. The first revamping began in early 2012 under the new ownership and included mainly new paint and carpet, he said.

“(President/owner Roger Patel) had to do a complete renovation to meet the new Hampton Inn standards,” Baker said.

All 122 guestrooms were upgraded with new furniture, cloud-like bedding and artwork, and the public areas were modernized with furniture and lighting.

The breakfast room offers complimentary hot meals, including homemade Belgian waffles. The dining area features a variety of table setups, including a tall, king-sized table with elegant table

Outside, the entrance features new stone columns, walkway, landscaping and pool furniture. lamps and lots of seating. The outdoor pool is open Memorial Day to Labor Day.

New equipment, including a treadmill, exercise bikes and free weights, are available in the fitness center.

More renovations are planned, such as moving the business center out into the lobby, creating a laundry center, revamping the two 300-seat banquet rooms and replacing the shower/tubs with tubs and tile.